A man found dead off the coast of Malibu has been identified as a beloved musician, composer and conductor who friends say touched countless lives through his music.
Authorities recovered the body of 36-year-old Braden Pontoli from the water just north of Malibu Lagoon on Wednesday.
He was found without clothing and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Pontoli had reportedly been scheduled for an in-person interview in Santa Monica earlier in the week and was reported missing after he failed to appear, according to friends.
Authorities have not announced an official cause of death.
An investigation remains underway, but officials said there was no clear indication of foul play.
Pontoli worked as a composer, conductor, musician, sound artist and “sound healer,” according to his professional website.
His work spanned multiple genres and included music for the stage, screen and outdoor settings.
His website described his music as “meditative, invigorating, and energizing.”
Pontoli was also preparing for a residency in Iceland in 2027, where he planned to work on sound installations and arrangements of traditional folk songs.
His partner, Tommy Lei, shared an emotional tribute following the musician’s death.
“This isn’t the post I want to make,” Lei wrote. “Braden, you are so loved and beloved. You were the music and soundtrack in my world.”
“I still don’t believe this is real. We miss you so much already,” he added.
The Claremont Chorale, a choir group in eastern Los Angeles County, also mourned Pontoli and remembered him for his “beautiful baritone voice.”
The group said Pontoli had performed solos with the choir and described him as kind, patient and generous.
“His musical gifts brought joy and healing to many,” the group said while offering condolences to his loved ones.
Another friend said Pontoli had helped shape his life and praised both his musicianship and skills as a composer.
“Your musicianship and composer chops have always inspired me and driven me to be better,” the friend wrote.
The friend added that he was grateful their paths had crossed and for the friendship they shared.
Pontoli’s death has left friends, fellow musicians and loved ones stunned as investigators continue working to determine exactly how he ended up in the water off Malibu.
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Found nude in the ocean and was “scheduled for an in-person interview” was just thrown in there and no details? Meeting with whom and for what?